The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has released a 24-man list for the Super Eagles’ 2026 FIFA World Cup African play-offs in Morocco.
Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye and winger Chidera Ejuke have been recalled to the squad for the first time in over a year.
The list, announced on Saturday through the federation’s official social media pages, comes ahead of Nigeria’s semi-final clash against Gabon on November 13 at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat.
The winner of the match will face either Cameroon or DR Congo in the final on November 16 for a place in the inter-confederation play-offs.
Okoye, who has been in fine form for Udinese, returns after last featuring for Nigeria in June. His recall follows concerns over Stanley Nwabali’s recent performances.
The 26-year-old has regained his place as first-choice goalkeeper at his club after serving a two-month suspension earlier this year.
In defence, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Chidozie Awaziem, and Semi Ajayi were named. Osayi-Samuel returns after recovering from a muscle injury, while Ajayi remains suspended for the semi-final due to accumulated yellow cards. Captain William Troost-Ekong and Calvin Bassey also retain their spots.
The midfield includes Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Alhassan Yusuf, and Alex Iwobi, with Raphael Onyedika returning after recovering from a hamstring injury.
In attack, Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Tolu Arokodare, Akor Adams, and Olusegun Olakunle were included.
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Ejuke’s recall marks his first appearance since October 2024, following his steady form with Sevilla in La Liga this season.
Notably missing from the list are Paul Onuachu and Ebenezer Akinsanmiro. Onuachu, who has scored seven goals this season for Trabzonspor and was recently named Turkish Super Lig Player of the Month, was expected to be called up.
Nigeria, who last appeared at the World Cup in 2018, will look to secure a place at the 2026 edition to be hosted in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
The play-offs, holding from November 13 to 16 in Rabat, will feature Nigeria, Gabon, Cameroon, and DR Congo competing for one slot in the inter-confederation play-offs.